Every child will need their own ETIAS, babies included, if their nationality requires it. It's free for under-18s and parents or guardians can apply on their behalf. At the border, children under 12 aren't fingerprinted by the EES.
The basics
- Each child needs their own application: there are no family or group applications.
- Fee: €0 for under-18s.
- A parent or guardian can fill it in, signing the declaration of representation.
- If they turn 18, their ETIAS stays valid until it expires.
At the border
With the EES, children under 12 aren't fingerprinted, but their photo and details are registered. Countries can ask for extra documents if a child travels alone or with one parent (a signed consent letter, for example). See minors at the border.
How to apply for a child
Group or family applications are not possible: each child needs their own application, linked to their own passport. A parent or legal guardian fills it in on the child's behalf and signs the declaration of representation. The fee is €0 for anyone under 18, so the process is the same as for an adult but without payment.
What happens when they turn 18
Nothing: an ETIAS is valid until its expiry date regardless of the holder's age. A child who got it at 16 can keep using it after turning 18 until it expires (3 years) or until the passport does. Children's passports often expire sooner than adults', so the ETIAS may end earlier.
School trips
Some pupils who would normally need a visa can travel visa-free on a school trip if they live in a visa-exempt country and travel as part of an organised school group. In that case they apply for an ETIAS instead of a visa. Rules vary by destination country, so the school should check each country on the official list.
Frequently asked questions
Does a baby need ETIAS?
Yes, if their nationality is on the visa-exempt list. It's free.
Can I add my kids to my application?
No. Each person needs an authorization linked to their own passport.
Do school trips need ETIAS?
Students from visa-exempt countries do. Also, some students from visa-required countries who live in visa-exempt countries can travel with ETIAS on a supervised school trip.
Can I include my children in my ETIAS application?
No. Each person needs their own application and authorisation.
Do children need to give fingerprints?
Not for ETIAS. At the border (EES), children under 12 don't give fingerprints either.
Keep reading
Sources
- European Commission: ETIAS FAQ (minors, fees, individual applications)
- European Commission: EES FAQ (children under 12)
This guide is independent and for information only. Rules can change: before you travel, always double-check on the official ETIAS website and with the authorities of the country you're visiting.